Beadwork Magazine - International Discrimination?

As readers of Beadwork Magazine know, in every issue there is a section called "The Challenge." Readers are encouraged to send in photos of their own beadwork to demonstrate to the editors that they have what it takes in creativity to participate in the magazine's Challenge. The chosen participant for each issue is sent a selection of beads with which to compose a creative piece that may be featured in a future issue alongside pieces made by artists on the Beadwork staff using the same selection of beads. The bead packets are provided to Beadwork by manufacturers and bead sellers – a great advertising tool.

Before going any further, we'd like to assure you that we love Beadwork magazine and in no way wish to deny the quality of the magazine.

Of course "The Challenge" has rules and restrictions, one of which is clearly stated in each issue featuring "The Challenge." "Due to International shipping costs, this Challenge is limited to residents of the United States and Canada."

One Beaddreamz member, Jeanne of New Jersey, cries foul! Using the excuse of "international shipping costs" to exclude worldwide readers is riduculous when Beadwork receives discounted shipping rates and indeed mails their publication to bead enthusiasts all over the world. There are many highly skilled members of Beaddreamz who live outside of North America, not to mention worldwide readers of the magazine, and we are outraged on their behalf! Honestly, how much does it really cost to mail a small packet of beads anywhere in the world? Remember, Beadwork does not pay for the beads, just the postage.

Do you agree or disagree? Our own Jeanne has composed a letter and sent it to the editors of Beadwork, admonishing them for this unfair restriction. Let's tell Beadwork how we feel! You can download and print a copy of Jeanne's letter here:
http://www.calameo.com/read/0001512173575828974e2

The mailing address is shown on the letter. All you have to do is sign it and send it off.

Sound off about your feelings regarding Beadwork's challenge restrictions. We'd love to know what you have to say!